F.A.Q.’s
Social Security Disability
What is Social Security Disability?
Who is eligible to receive Social Security Disability?
I applied for Social Security Disability and I got turned down – what can I do?
What if I missed the deadline to file a claim?
Since I can complete the application myself, why do I need an attorney?
Will I be eligible for Medicaid or Medicare if I qualify for Social Security Disability?
1. What is Social Security Disability?
Social Security Disability is a program designed by the government to provide assistance to people who have a disability that prevents them from earning a living.
2. Who is eligible to receive Social Security Disability?
Eligibility varies – most people who receive Social Security Disability are adults who previously worked in a job through which they paid into the Social Security system, but there are other situations in which a person may be eligible. People who are blind, as well as children born with disabilities may also be entitled – regardless of work history or lack thereof. Widowed spouses of people who received Social Security disability may also be eligible for benefits.
The amount of disability varies – in general, benefits range from $650/month - $2,000/month, depending upon what you have paid into Social Security and how many dependents you have living in your home.
4. I applied for Social Security Disability and I got turned down – what can I do?
You have 60 days in which to appeal the decision – and most people do get turned down the first time they apply, so it’s vital that you not give up. The attorneys at Gordon & Doner are very familiar with Social Security regulations and can help you to navigate the often frustrating experience of trying to obtain benefits.
5. What if I missed the deadline to file a claim?
You may still appeal if you can demonstrate that you had “good cause” for filing late – such as a serious illness or death in the family, the destruction of pertinent records in a fire or other reasons. It’s worth your while to contact one of our Gordon & Doner attorneys at 1-800-659-1159 so that we can assess your case and legal options.
6. Since I can complete the application myself, why do I need an attorney?
An attorney with experience in Social Security Disability will be familiar with common roadblocks in the bureaucratic process of filing for and obtaining Social Security disability benefits. In Florida, almost 800,000 residents received Social Security disability in 2004 according to the Florida Department of Health. Our attorneys at Gordon & Doner are knowledgeable in Social Security law and can help you obtain the benefits you are entitled to receive.
7. My daughter has been disabled since birth, but she may be able to seek some employment – is she still eligible for Social Security Disability benefits?
Florida launched a program known as the Florida Freedom Initiative, in which disabled people who are eligible may be able to seek employment opportunities without losing all of their Social Security Disability benefits. The Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities can provide more information at 1-866-APD-CARES.
8. I’ve heard there are people who can help with my Social Security Disability claim who aren’t lawyers – why shouldn’t I just contact one of them?
There are individuals or firms known as non-attorney advocates, who can be hired to help represent someone filing a claim for Social Security Disability. However, non-attorney advocates are not permitted to represent someone at the Appeals Council stage, so you are much better off hiring an attorney who can provide representation and knowledgeable assistance throughout the process. Contact a Gordon & Doner attorney at 1-800-659-1159 and we can assess your case today.
9. Will I be eligible for Medicaid or Medicare if I qualify for Social Security Disability?
If the Social Security Administration approves your disabled status, you will be eligible for Medicare. If you are under the age of 65, you will be entitled to Medicaid coverage - and your minor children and dependents may also be eligible.
10. Should I seek medical care while I am waiting for approval of my Social Security Disability benefits?
Yes, definitely. Do not wait for the benefits to seek appropriate treatment – and make sure to document all medical care, as it may be useful in documenting your disability. A Gordon & Doner attorney can help review which medical records will be necessary – contact us today at 1-800-659-1159.
For more information, please see the following related page on our
website:
Social Security Disability
